COLD WEATHER RESPONSE PLAN RELEASED FOR TYLER, SMITH COUNTY

The Tyler Fire Department, along with other organizations, released the latest cold weather response plan on Tuesday. It includes safety measures and a resource list.

Author:
Stephanie Esquivel

Published:
5:40 PM CST December 6, 2017

Updated:
7:12 PM CST December 6, 2017

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The Tyler Fire Department, along with other organizations, released the latest cold weather response plan on Tuesday.

The plan includes safety measures to keep people and animals safe during the cold winter months. It also included tips on how to prevent house fires.

"Most of the fires are preventable this time of year," said Paul Findley with the Tyler Fire Department.

Findley said that although kitchen fires are the most common, heating sources are a close second. He tells CBS19 that when you use a space heater, or fireplace, it's important to keep items at a distance.

"You don't want anything within three feet of a heat source. Nothing within three feet of a fireplace. Nothing within three feet of a space heater," said Findley.

The plan also reminded people that house fires aren't the only danger. Findley said if you're using natural gas, carbon monoxide poisoning is also a risk.

"If you have any type of heating appliance that runs off of natural gas, instead of electricity, it's a good idea to have carbon monoxide detectors in your home," said Findley.

Candles and Christmas lights are also listed in the plan as dangers.

"We don't want to go to bed, or leave our home, with candles lit or with Christmas light on," said Findley.

The plan also provided preventative measures for people and pets when outside the home.

Findley said if you're leaving your home, it's always wise to wear three layers of clothes. He says as the day gets warmer, you can start peeling those layers off.

As for pets, he says the rule of thumb is: if it's too cold for you, it's too cold for your pet.

"If you can make arrangements for them to be inside it's a good idea especially when it's cool,” said Findley. If you can't, having something available to them to stay warm."

The plan also included a list of resources for those who need a warm place to stay.

The Salvation Army is listed as an overnight shelter along with the Red Cross.

If you just need to stay warm during the day, The City of Tyler offers multiple locations including The Glass Recreation Center, The Tyler Public Library and the Senior Citizen Activity Center.